History of Calligraphy & Background

Calligraphy comes from the Greek words Kallos and graphos means beautiful writing. The red ochre writings on pebbles or stones are considered to be the earliest specimens of writings. These letters could either be phonetic representations of sound - letters or were used to perform some ritualistic functions. They were standardised over a period of time and a script evolved through them. This script then was established as a source of linear writing. The Indian script is called the lipi, this word originates from Sanskrit word 'Lipa'. The very word 'Akshara' means 'non - perishable'.

Objectives

Calligraphy is not only beautiful writing but is meaningful writing. It’s an art where one can see the meaning of the word even before one reads it. It helps improve handwriting. One can make best use of this stylised handwriting for making logos, press-ads, posters, wedding cards, calendars, use on different products like coffee mugs, T - shirts, coasters, lamp shades etc.

Calligraphy workshops

Art India Foundation has been conducting art workshops since its inception. These include drawing and sketching workshops, painting workshops, calligraphy workshops as well as pottery workshops. Here are pictures from the calligraphy workshop conducted by Babu Udupi in 2008, 2009 and 2010.